In this year’s guide to the best clawhammer banjos, we’ve refined our selection to ensure that every pick represents the pinnacle of quality and craftsmanship. Notably, we’ve bid farewell to the Recording King RK-OT25-BR Madison Open Back Banjo to make way for an even more exceptional choice.

Whether you’re a beginner eager to embark on your clawhammer journey or a seasoned enthusiast seeking an upgrade, our list has something for everyone.

Mulucky 5 String Banjo Set B1101

1. Mulucky 5 String Banjo Set B1101

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Vangoa Open Back Banjo Kit

2. Vangoa Open Back Banjo Kit

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Gold Tone Open Back Banjo AC-1

3. Gold Tone AC-1, 5-String Open Back Banjo

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Washburn B7, Open Back Banjo

4. Washburn B7-A, Open Back Banjo

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Deering Goodtime, Open back 5 String Banjo

5. Deering Goodtime, Open back 5 String Banjo

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Gold Tone CC-Mini Cripple Creek Banjo

6. Gold Tone CC-Mini Cripple Creek Banjo

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Gold Tone WL-250, Open back Banjo

7. Gold Tone WL-250, Open back Banjo

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1. Mulucky 5 String Banjo Set B1101

Mulucky 5 String Banjo Set B1101

Mulucky, known for its dedication to musical excellence, has been a trusted name in the industry for years. We’ve chosen the Mulucky B1101 as one of the best clawhammer banjos for beginners, thanks to its budget-friendly price and comprehensive kit. This package includes everything you need to start your clawhammer adventure, making it an ideal choice for newcomers looking to dive into the world of clawhammer banjo playing.

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Key Features:

  • Brand: Mulucky
  • Ideal for beginners
  • Budget-friendly
  • Comes as a comprehensive kit
  • Suitable for those just starting with clawhammer
  • Beginner-friendly design and build

Pros:

  • Open-back design for unique tonal qualities.
  • Great choice for newcomers to clawhammer style.

Cons:

  • Budget option – advanced players may not find this instrument ideal.

2. Vangoa Open Back Banjo Kit

Vangoa Open Back Banjo Kit

Vangoa, renowned for their commitment to musical innovation, brings you the Vangoa Banjo Open Back Kit. Just like its bluegrass counterpart, we recommend this open-back banjo for beginners due to its affordability and kit offerings. Vangoa’s dedication to quality and inclusion of essential extras make it a fantastic choice for those venturing into the world of clawhammer banjo.

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Key Features & Specifications:

  • Brand: Vangoa
  • Strings: 5
  • Neck Material: Maple
  • Resonator: N/A (Open Back)
  • Fingerboard Material: Rosewood
  • Kit includes: Gig bag, tuner, strings, strap, and more
  • Open-back design for unique tonal qualities
  • Budget-friendly option with a beginner-friendly kit
  • Suitable for various playing styles

Pros:

  • Ready to start playing beginner-friendly kit.
  • Open-back design for unique tonal qualities.
  • One of the best value for money kits.

Cons:

  • Budget option – advanced players may not find this instrument ideal.

3. Gold Tone AC-1, 5-String Open Back Banjo

Gold Tone Open Back Banjo AC-1 - 400px

Gold Tone, a trusted name with a history of delivering quality instruments, presents the AC-1 5-String Banjo. This budget-friendly option offers exceptional value for beginners interested in clawhammer style. While it may not be a kit like some of our other recommendations, Gold Tone’s reputation and the option to customize your extras make it a strong contender for those who want to build their banjo setup gradually.

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Key Features:

  • Brand: Gold Tone
  • Strings: 5
  • Rim: Composite
  • Fretboard Material: Rosewood

Pros:

  • More reputable brand.
  • Good budget option for beginners.

Cons:

  • May not offer the same level of excellence as higher end model.

4. Washburn B7-A, Open Back Banjo

Washburn B7, Open Back Banjo

Washburn, a well-established brand in the music industry, presents the Americana Series B7-A 5-string Open Back Banjo. While it may not be rated as a perfect 5-star product, it still offers a decent entry point for those starting with clawhammer style. With Washburn’s history of quality instruments, this banjo provides a reliable choice for beginners looking to explore clawhammer playing.

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Key Features & Specifications:

  • Brand: Washburn
  • Strings: 5
  • Body Material: Mahogany
  • Resonator: N/A (Open Back)
  • Fretboard Material: Engineered Wood

Pros:

  • Decent entry-level option from a reputable brand.
  • Suitable for those beginning with clawhammer.
  • Washburn’s legacy of quality musical instruments.

Cons:

  • May not offer the same level of excellence as higher-rated models.

5. Deering Goodtime, Open back 5 String Banjo

Deering Goodtime Open Back 5 String Banjo

Deering, a brand with a long-standing presence in the market, introduces the Goodtime Openback 5 String Banjo. Chosen as one of our top clawhammer banjos, this instrument is perfect for beginners venturing into clawhammer style. Its solid construction and renowned Deering quality make it an excellent investment for those aiming to begin their clawhammer journey on the right note.

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Key Features & Specifications:

  • Brand: Deering
  • Strings: 5
  • Body Material: Maple
  • Resonator: N/A (Open Back)
  • FretboardĀ Material: Maple

Pros:

  • Trusted brand with a rich history.
  • Ideal choice for newcomers to clawhammer.
  • Deering’s reputation for quality craftsmanship.
  • Bright and clear open-back banjo sound

Cons:

  • Nothing to mention about this product compared to it’s pricing.

6. Gold Tone CC-Mini Cripple Creek Banjo

Gold Tone CC-Mini Cripple Creek Banjo

For those who crave the sounds of clawhammer while on the move, Gold Tone offers the CC-Mini Cripple Creek Banjo. This mini 5-string open-back banjo is a fantastic choice for travelers. Its price and reviews place it comfortably in the medium-budget range, making it an attractive option for players seeking portability and playability.

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Key Features & Specifications:

  • Brand: Gold Tone
  • Strings: 5
  • Body Material: Maple
  • Resonator: N/A (Open Back)
  • Fretboard Material: Rosewood

Pros:

  • Compact and travel-friendly design.
  • Medium-budget option for clawhammer enthusiasts.
  • Well-regarded brand in the musical instrument industry.
  • Unique tonal qualities and versatility.

Cons:

  • Extras may need to be purchased separately.

7. Gold Tone WL-250, Open back Banjo

Gold Tone WL-250, Open back Banjo

Gold Tone takes center stage with the WL-250 White Ladye Openback Banjo, designed for serious clawhammer enthusiasts. While it falls into the high-end category, this banjo delivers exceptional quality and tonal richness. For players who are dedicated to clawhammer style and seek the utmost in craftsmanship, the WL-250 is the ultimate choice.

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Key Features:

  • Brand: Gold Tone
  • Strings: 5
  • Body Material: Maple, Ebony
  • Resonator: N/A (Open Back)
  • Fretboard Material: Ebony
  • Vintage Brown finish for a classic look

Pros:

  • High-quality instrument for serious clawhammer players.
  • Exceptional craftsmanship and tonal richness.
  • Gold Tone’s legacy of quality musical instruments.

Cons:

  • Considered a high-end investment in terms of price.

Buyer Guide: Choosing the Perfect Clawhammer Banjo

When shopping for a clawhammer banjo, it’s essential to consider various factors to find the right instrument that suits your needs and preferences. Here’s a user-friendly guide to help you make an informed decision:

  1. Budget: Determine your budget range before exploring options. Clawhammer banjos come in various price ranges, so knowing how much you’re willing to spend will narrow down your choices.
  2. Number of Strings: Clawhammer banjos typically have five strings, but some variations exist. Ensure the banjo you choose aligns with your preferred number of strings.
  3. Tonewoods: Pay attention to the materials used in the banjo’s construction. Common tonewoods include maple, mahogany, and nato. The choice of tonewood affects the banjo’s tone and resonance.
  4. Fingerboard Material: Look for a fingerboard made of materials like rosewood or ebony, as they offer durability and smooth playability.
  5. Brand Reputation: Consider reputable brands with a history of producing quality banjos, such as Deering, Gold Tone, Washburn, and others mentioned in this guide.
  6. Extras and Kits: If you’re a beginner, you might prefer banjo kits that come with essential accessories like gig bags, picks, tuners, and straps. These kits can be cost-effective and convenient for new players.
  7. Playability: Ensure the banjo has a comfortable neck and string action that suits your playing style. Test playability to see if it feels right in your hands.
  8. Sound Quality: Listen to the banjo’s sound and decide if it aligns with your expectations for clawhammer playing. A clear, warm, and resonant sound is desirable.
  9. Customer Reviews: Read customer reviews and testimonials to gather insights from fellow musicians who have purchased the same banjo model. Their experiences can be valuable in your decision-making process.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) About Clawhammer Banjos:

Q1: What is clawhammer banjo playing?

A1: Clawhammer is a traditional banjo playing style characterized by a downward strumming motion using the back of the fingernails or fingertips. It produces a rhythmic and percussive sound commonly associated with folk and old-time music.

Q2: Do I need prior banjo experience to play clawhammer style?

A2: Clawhammer style is suitable for both beginners and experienced players. However, if you’re new to banjo playing, consider starting with a beginner-friendly model and practice under the guidance of instructional resources.

Q3: Can I customize my clawhammer banjo with additional accessories?

A3: Yes, you can customize your banjo with various accessories like different strings, bridges, and tailpieces to modify its tone and playability according to your preferences.

Q4: How do I maintain my clawhammer banjo for longevity?

A4: Regular maintenance includes keeping your banjo clean, changing strings when needed, and ensuring proper storage in a controlled environment. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific care instructions.

Q5: Should I buy a kit or purchase banjo accessories separately?

A5: Kits are ideal for beginners, as they often include essential accessories. However, more experienced players may prefer purchasing accessories separately to tailor their setup precisely to their preferences.